Benjamin Devane Clarke Jr.

Devane Clarke was born in Ranger, Texas in 1929, grew up in Athens, Texas and graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. As a Chi Phi, he was selected Alumnus of the year in 1987. After serving in the Navy he had an advertising business and then became an accomplished real-estate developer with major projects in several cities, including developing Chandler's Landing Yacht Club at Rockwall where he was the Club's first Commodore. He served as president of the Texas (and the Dallas) Apartment Association and was appointed by the Governor to the Special Advisory Council on Housing and the Texas Department of Community Affairs. He enjoyed business and was also an avid sportsman. He excelled in sailboat racing, skiing, fly-fishing, scuba diving and tennis. He enjoyed traveling and seeking new adventures with his soul-mate and wife of 33 years, Aggie, and their children Devane Clarke III, Cary Clarke and wife Kama, Susan Wood and husband Clinton, Barron Thomas, David Thomas & Fiancé Christi Ernst , and grandchildren Clarke Wood, William Clarke and Avery Clarke. He is also survived by his devoted sister Jean Holmes of Athens, Texas.

A long time member of Lovers Lane United Methodist Church, he served on several administrative boards and also established the Prayer Room, and wrote a book on God's Spiritual Universe. He has served on the Board of Bent Tree Country Club as well as president of the Men's Tennis Association. Devane planned to run a marathon and play tennis when he turned 100. But he did not fear death, as he knew God would schedule a big assignment for him someday, which he would take on with a sense of adventure and enthusiasm. He was amazingly energetic and competitive and was a blessing to his many friends. Do not feel your prayers for him were in vain. Assuredly, he felt and he appreciated every one of them.

A Memorial Service will be held at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church on July 7th at 10:00 am.

Memorial gifts may be made to The Shepherd's Garden & Columbarium at Lovers Lane Church, 9200 Inwood, Dallas, Texas 75220. Or please come visit Devane at that beautiful setting after its' completion July 30.